On March 17, 2007, one of Newtownstewart's favourite and most talented sons was laid to rest in Glenock Graveyard. Edward McNamee was born in June 1926, and went on to lead a full and very active life, centred very much around his exceptional musical talents.

In his teenage years, he came to prominence as a member of a flute band and a céilí band, which won feis titles in 1944 and 1945. It was as a founder member of the famed Melody Aces that he was to become a household name in every county in Ireland and in Irish communities in England, Scotland and the United States.

The Melody Aces were the trailblazers, setting standards for others to try to emulate. Their unique blend of big band, Dixieland, pop and country set them apart as musicians and singers. Edward's great sense of humour also ensured that there would always be an element of comedy in the routine. It was the Melody Aces who put the 'show' into 'showband.' It wasn't just the many fans and dancers who appreciated them, but the members of other bands also respected the talents of the Melody Aces.

When the showband era came to an end in the early 1970s, the multi-talented Edward McNamee continued to play and to entertain. He not only played the accordion, fiddle, flute, tin whistle, mouth organ, saxophone and clarinet, he made them 'talk.' At parties, dances, concerts and seisiúns, Edward was welcome with the Mourne Valley Stompers or as a leading member of Cappagh/Badoney Branch of CCE.

Edward and his Céilí Band and then the Mourne Dance Band played many a date in the old Parochial Hall in Knockmoyle. It was fitting that his last performance was at a concert in the New Hall at Knockmoyle, just as we entered 2007.

It is even more fitting that a special night is being organised in Knockmoyle on Sunday night, March 30, to celebrate and commemorate the life of Edward.

Brendan Donaghy heads up a grand variety concert. Special guest, Gene Turbett, will provide memories and interesting anecdotes from the early days of the Mourne Dance Band to the heyday of the Melody Aces. Members of the audience will also be given the opportunity to pay tribute to Edward. Guests of honour are Bessie McNamee and the extended McNamee family.

The night of celebration and commemoration begins at 7.30pm and there is much to celebrate and commemorate from the life of a great musician and a warm, gentle and caring person.

Tickets are on sale, please contact Benny Monaghan on 81648155 and patrons can also pay at the door.

A special booklet, commemorating the life and times of Edward McNamee, in pictures and in words, will be launched at the concert.